Midfielder Set For Russian Move As Arsenal End Nears

Andrey Arshavin is believed to be considering a move back to Russia when his contract at Arsenal expires in order to improve his chances of playing for Russia at the 2014 World Cup.

Zenit St Petersburg have revealed they would be interested in taking Arshavin permanently after the Russia international enjoyed a loan spell at the club in the lead up to Euro 2012.

Andrey Arshavin is wanted at Zent St Petersburg next season.

And with his deal at Arsenal coming to an end, he would be available on a free, making him all the more attractive to Zenit as the summer transfer window rolls around.

Manager Luciano Spalletti said of the star: "If Arshavin is the man who can bring something extra to our team, then we will think about it. We like Andrey, he is a charismatic player."

Arshavin's deal to move to Arsenal from Zenit in 2009 was one of Arsene Wenger's most extravagant purchases in his time in north London, but despite coming off the back of a brilliant performance in the 2008 Euros, he wasn't able to recreate his form.

He has since endured strong criticism from fans for his apparent lack of enthusiasm on the pitch, with Robin van Persie in particular making his feelings known last year when the midfielder was brought on for Alex Oxlade Chamberlain.

Wenger has continually stuck by the 31 year old, but as his contract ran down this season, the manager hasn't entered into any talks over a new deal, and has hardly played him over the course of the season.

With just seven appearances for the Gunners to his name in the last campaign, it will be difficult for Arshavin to attract a club that can offer him the same trophy ambitions as Arsenal, but the former Zenit man will also be looking for game time next season to prove that he can still be a vital player for Russia.

Russia are currently at the top of Group F in the World Cup qualifying stages, and if they hold this position they will automatically qualify. And Arshavin will no doubt want to be there to make up for the disappointments of Euro 2012, where Russia bombed out in the group stages despite some tipping them to win the trophy.